tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52955179650454264352018-07-09T00:35:45.709-07:00Galapagos RebreathersGalapagos Rebreathers delivers close and intimate encounters with marine wild life and promotes underwater exploration in the Galapagos Islands.Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.comBlogger103125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-21971160460293841512018-03-08T07:57:00.004-08:002018-03-08T08:12:49.373-08:00Galapagos CCR 2017 clips2017 was a good year at Galapagos Rebreathers. We supported about 8 expeditions. My role was primarily as a guide and I did not dive with the primary objective of getting photo and video. Here are a few clips from my compact point and shoot. Enjoy!<br /><br />Jorge A. Mahauad<br /><br /><br /><a name='more'></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C94elPWh1Hc" width="500"></iframe><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Hmh4AV90oCI" width="500"></iframe><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-AEqg725BMs" width="500"></iframe><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SZ_R2JHQ86U" width="500"></iframe><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Yl2mBy8Q3UQ" width="500"></iframe><iframe width="500" height="300" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7cTfml52v00" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe><iframe width="500" height="300" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pQhfCsMybUI" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe><iframe width="500" height="300" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2zX97hGTv6U" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe></div><iframe width="500" height="305" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/PT2xsCpqZF8" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe><iframe width="500" height="300" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Lyk2RZsTcyQ" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe><iframe width="500" height="300" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/x5rupAdFS3g" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe><iframe width="500" height="300" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GyWIUUiEGmA" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe><iframe width="500" height="300" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0mRIRc08NfQ" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe><iframe width="500" height="300" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/N6pSDj9FavE" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe><iframe width="500" height="300" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FbY-qXk7uGw" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe> Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0Galápagos Islands, Ecuador-0.383106 -90.423334399999987-2.415105 -93.0051214 1.648893 -87.841547399999982tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-12756278880113123192017-08-01T08:06:00.000-07:002017-08-01T08:07:40.679-07:00Last minute deal!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-family: &quot;san francisco&quot; , , , &quot;.sfnstext-regular&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.24px;">We have a last minute cancellation on our August 7 to 14 rebreather trip. This has been sold out for over a year now but one of our guests had a family medical emergency and can't attend. This is a 7k trip and is being sold for 3k. If you are interested let me know, trip leaves on Monday so there is time to get here. Check out what this is about in the video below:</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy3Xdz9YSsGSoC0hqwVHcensuQLs33JWicWIHscTcvFY0O4xPagXA2Do6688a-HL6d7qfFudj1Xny3MbYJHRA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0' /></div><br />Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0Galápagos Islands, Ecuador-0.95376909999999993 -90.965601900000024-5.0152936 -96.129175900000021 3.1077554000000003 -85.802027900000027tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-63917381413132650732016-12-05T14:15:00.000-08:002016-12-05T14:15:10.315-08:00Glapagos Sky welcomes Galapagos Rebreathers<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PjKcJRX9KrE/WEXfX76NDKI/AAAAAAAAJ9c/lpVFrdMw3xMOC7yRalAM-1oFUrtoP04XwCLcB/s1600/Galapagos%2BRebreathers%2BGalapagos%2BSky.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PjKcJRX9KrE/WEXfX76NDKI/AAAAAAAAJ9c/lpVFrdMw3xMOC7yRalAM-1oFUrtoP04XwCLcB/s400/Galapagos%2BRebreathers%2BGalapagos%2BSky.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.galapagossky.com/" target="_blank">Galapagos Sky</a>, the most luxurious live-aboard vessel in the Galapagos Islands is now welcoming rebreather divers on selected departures.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Amy Lesh, Marketing and Sales Manager made the announcement earlier today.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">“I think it is a good move and I am very optimistic. Jorge will prescreen/prequalify rebreather divers and handle all logistics with them, etc. - he will bring all boosters, bail out bottles, arrange O2, sorb, etc. I look forward to working with on this!”</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The two rebreather departures planned for 2017 have 8 open spots each and are expected to sell fast. For information please contact Jorge A. Mahauad, Director of Galapagos Rebreathers.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Galapagos Rebreathers is a firm dedicated to providing rebreather services in the Galapagos Islands. Our mission is to deliver close and intimate encounters with marine wildlife and promote underwater exploration.</div><br />Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0Galápagos Islands, Ecuador-0.95376909999999993 -90.965601900000024-5.0152936 -96.129175900000021 3.1077554000000003 -85.802027900000027tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-15845599923914728842016-04-26T08:14:00.000-07:002016-04-26T08:14:03.792-07:00Good news! Solid state oxygen sensors are here<br /><br /><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fT8JDYUTrxY/Vx-Eh-yTOJI/AAAAAAAAJLA/OgrLNZAorNkXdeYlQ_e7xnNRJW5k52ldACLcB/s1600/Jorge%2BA.%2BMahauad%2BGalapagos%2BRebreathers%2BTEKdiveUSA%2B2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fT8JDYUTrxY/Vx-Eh-yTOJI/AAAAAAAAJLA/OgrLNZAorNkXdeYlQ_e7xnNRJW5k52ldACLcB/s200/Jorge%2BA.%2BMahauad%2BGalapagos%2BRebreathers%2BTEKdiveUSA%2B2016.jpg" width="112" /></a>I just returned home from attending TEKdiveUSA.2016 over the weekend.<br /><br />Besides the amazing talks and stories there which I will not try to reproduce in this blog, I wanter to blog about one of the most remarkable advancements in terms of innovation for Tecnical Diving in the last few years.<br /><br />Oxygen measuring is still probably one of the weakest links in the "modern" rebreather. Highly evolved electronics and controllers thrive to keep us alive but the good old galvanic sensor has always been there to make sure things aren't that easy.<br /><br /><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mlpNLc0_D4Q/Vx-EhfKPvEI/AAAAAAAAJK4/EPEJYGJUDSAubDSExdFFl-arlgCjg5VSACLcB/s1600/poseidon%2Brebreather%2Bsolid%2Bstate%2Bsensor%2Btekdiveusa%2B2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mlpNLc0_D4Q/Vx-EhfKPvEI/AAAAAAAAJK4/EPEJYGJUDSAubDSExdFFl-arlgCjg5VSACLcB/s200/poseidon%2Brebreather%2Bsolid%2Bstate%2Bsensor%2Btekdiveusa%2B2016.jpg" width="200" /></a>Anyway, Poseidon Systems introduced a working model of a solid state Oxygen sensor. This is huge. There has been a lot of talk about these for many years and I am glad to see one that will be commercially available in 2016.<br /><br />Poseidon has also understood that this advancement is for the benefit and growth of rebreather “industry”, not just for Poseidon rebreathers. They will be selling the sensor in conjunction with the new M28, an advanced dive computer.<br /><br />The technical details are available <a href="http://www.poseidon.com/products/computers/m28-and-solid-state-sensor" target="_blank">here</a>.<br /><br />Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-82304070783033272592016-04-22T14:26:00.000-07:002016-04-22T14:26:04.316-07:00TEKdiveUSA.2016 is here<h3>Starting tonight, <a href="http://tekdiveusa.com/" target="_blank">TEKDiveUSA</a> is a biennial advanced and technical diving conference.</h3>We kick things off tonight with a BBQ.<br /><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--QkL_Tfl3W8/TcAnzJGNNfI/AAAAAAAABbI/s8SPAXKG_3QHW4C4D5LmZWoC4THiFlGbACKgB/s1600/DSC_7834_web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--QkL_Tfl3W8/TcAnzJGNNfI/AAAAAAAABbI/s8SPAXKG_3QHW4C4D5LmZWoC4THiFlGbACKgB/s320/DSC_7834_web.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A dive into a volcanic cave 60 meters deep in a collapsed crater<br />in Gordon Rocks, Galapagos Islands.&nbsp;</td></tr></tbody></table>The next couple days will comprise an exhibition. The 'show and tell' will has over 35 international technical diving companies with opportunities to talk directly with manufacturers.<br /><br />For me, the most interesting part is the conference with several talks from the leading TEK divers and explorers around the globe. All these exciting talks and useful workshops will cover many aspects of advanced and technical diving including wreck, cave and dive physiology, technique, safety, technological advancement and imaging.<br /><br />There will also be a gala awards dinner. The Gala Awards Dinner is the night where we celebrate success, catch up with old friends and make new contacts.<br /><br />I will be posting a report on the things that I find most interesting and exciting in the next few days. If you are around and want to learn about what we do with Rebreathers in the Galapagos Islands just send me a line!<br /><br />JJorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0Hollywood, FL, USA26.0112014 -80.1494900999999825.897066900000002 -80.310851599999978 26.1253359 -79.988128599999982tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-14465051811165720952016-01-22T08:04:00.002-08:002016-01-22T08:05:40.578-08:00Amazing Galapagos video footage by Armado Gasse - Galapagos RebreathersI met Armando Gasse (<a href="http://armandogasse.com/">armandogasse.com</a>) back in 2012 while supporting a private vessel on a 2 week long trip to the Galapagos. We have remained friends since then and he is always sharing his amazing material with me.<br /><br />It is often hard to share the material filmed in super yacht support expeditions because of it's private nature. But here is an extensive edit of our trip back in 2012 with 4 rebreather divers on board that amazing 60 meter Research Super Yacht.<br /><br />He managed to leave out the boat information so I thought of sharing it... enjoy!<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/152612604" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>For more information on rebreather travel to the Galapagos Islands check out our <a href="http://www.galapagosccr.com/p/2013-rebreather-liveaboard.html" target="_blank">rebreather live-aboard specialized trips for 2016 and 2017</a>. For <a href="http://www.galapagosccr.com/p/super-yachts.html" target="_blank">Rebreather Super Yacht Support in the Galapagos Islands</a> follow this link.Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0Galápagos Islands, Ecuador-0.8292784 -90.982066799999984-4.8908029 -96.145640799999981 3.2322461000000002 -85.818492799999987tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-58178021388103373172015-10-21T07:49:00.000-07:002016-04-22T14:28:05.391-07:002016 and 2017 Galapagos Rebreather tripsExciting news! We have a number of trips available in 2016 and 2017 for the Galapagos Rebreathers community.<br /><br />Here is the schedule:<br /><br /><b><span style="color: yellow;">2016:&nbsp;</span></b><br /><b><span style="color: yellow;">Aug 5 - 12 - 1 spaces available</span></b> on board&nbsp;<a href="http://www.galapagosnortada.com/" target="_blank">Nortada</a>.<br /><br />Nortada is a privately owened vessel. It started operations in Galapagos in February 2015 and works with 8 guests only.<br /><br />Even with an 8 guest capacity, Nortada is priced within the market. Their value proposition is not to provide a more luxurious option, but rather to maximize diving by providing a very comprehensive dive itinerary, the ability to dive from smaller groups and to tailor services for special interest groups. This trip will be run by Jorge A. Mahauad<br /><br /><b><span style="color: yellow;">2017:&nbsp;</span></b><br /><b><span style="color: yellow;">Aug 7 - 14, spaces still available.</span> </b>This trip is on board Humboldt Explorer, a well-established vessel in the market. Carrying 16 people, this is aimed as a rebreather only trip and will be run in conjunction with Andy Phillips.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: yellow;">Aug 18 - Sept 15,</span></b> spaces available in several weeks of back to back trips on board Nortada.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: yellow;">A la carte departures:</span></b><br /><br />The Galapagos Rebreathers firm is run as a local platform for industry leaders worldwide who show interest in organizing rebreather travel to the Galapagos Islands. We provide support in terms of booking and marketing live-aboard spaces for rebreathers and provide on-site support, equipment, consumables and guiding. If you have a group of 4 or more please feel free to contact us as we can open a la carte departures if required.<br /><br />Please feel free to contact Jorge A. Mahauad, Andy Phillips or Pete Mesley to learn more about these departures. Galapagos Rebreathers will be sharing a booth with the<a href="http://www.tiptopdiving.com/" target="_blank"> Galapagos Tip Top Dive and Training Facility</a> in <b><span style="color: yellow;">DEMA 2015, booth # 1823&nbsp;</span></b><br /><div><br /></div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com1Islas Galápagos, Ecuador-0.8292784 -90.982066799999984-4.8908029 -96.145640799999981 3.2322461000000002 -85.818492799999987tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-65460100934401748212015-09-14T21:21:00.001-07:002015-09-14T21:33:29.317-07:00We are back from the Galapagos Rebreathers 2015 expeditionAfter an amazing week of rebreather diving in the Galapagos Islands, 16 divers, 220 kilos of Sofnolime used, 25,000+ liters of Oxygen pumped and almost 400 man hours of safe rebreather diving, our 2015 Galapagos Rebreathers expedition ended today. A ton of photos, videos and comments will be flooding the social media of our community members, be on the look out or go to our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GalapagosRebreathers" target="_blank">faceboook page</a> for more<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qa8RNpsIRaU/VfecmUSi7bI/AAAAAAAAHMM/YW2Uvefb-ic/s1600/12014996_10207480284502687_3184455603414097724_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qa8RNpsIRaU/VfecmUSi7bI/AAAAAAAAHMM/YW2Uvefb-ic/s400/12014996_10207480284502687_3184455603414097724_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0Islas Galápagos, Ecuador-0.8292784 -90.982066799999984-4.8908029 -96.145640799999981 3.2322461000000002 -85.818492799999987tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-82206276773852252102014-11-16T06:03:00.000-08:002014-11-16T06:04:07.698-08:00Galapagos Rebreathers in DEMA 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nD7M-GVlZ5k/VGiuaPH_ZQI/AAAAAAAAGv4/p8Igqen87fE/s1600/iptopdiving%2Bat%2Bdema%2Bshow%2B2014.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nD7M-GVlZ5k/VGiuaPH_ZQI/AAAAAAAAGv4/p8Igqen87fE/s1600/iptopdiving%2Bat%2Bdema%2Bshow%2B2014.png" height="60" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br />Jorge A. Mahauad, managing director of Galapagos Rebreathers will be attending DEMA Show 2014. Come by booth 2133 to have a chat and learn about what we are doing to promote rebreather travel to the Galapagos Islands. To make an appointment call (239) 400 - 4581 or (239) 240 7595.Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0Las Vegas Convention Center, Las Vegas, Nevada 89109, EE. UU.36.1311282 -115.1511191999999836.124715699999996 -115.16120419999999 36.1375407 -115.14103419999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-33393979095874727572014-11-03T05:57:00.001-08:002014-11-03T05:57:12.341-08:00Besides my own rebreather, what else should I bring?We recommended the following minimum spares and consumables:<br /><br /><ul><li>Oxygen Sensors (2)&nbsp;</li><li>Oxygen compatible grease</li><li>Any unit specific O-ring kit</li><li>Any unit specific tools</li><li>Mouthpiece</li></ul><br /><div><br /></div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-19334219373122849002014-11-03T05:55:00.002-08:002014-11-03T05:55:50.391-08:00What is the electricity voltage in the boat? Which plug do I take with me?The standard electrical power in the Galapagos is 110V, 60Hz. Most outlets take two flat-prong plugs. Other appliances and voltages will need appropriate adapters and converters.<br /><div><br /></div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-43222209258284815502014-11-03T05:54:00.003-08:002014-11-03T05:54:59.934-08:00I want to come dive with you, how do I go about making a booking?A minimum of two CCR divers is required to open a rebreather friendly departure. Galapagos Rebreathers will then market the departure as rebreather oriented in order to increase the number of CCR team members to up to 08.<br /><br />We have a data base of people interested and can pull together people with interest to plan a departure. Just send us a note.<br /><div><br /></div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-11993664461861072102014-11-03T05:52:00.002-08:002014-11-03T05:52:32.965-08:00What paperwork will I need to sign?Insurance, Liability Releases:<br /><br />All divers must carry dive accident insurance for the entire duration of the trip. Travel insurance is also recommended. Upon arrival, rebreather divers will be requested to fill in standard forms for diving liability release plus a special statement of understanding and liability release specific to rebreather diving. All boat releases and additional paperwork required to dive are also required.<br /><div><br /></div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-88195089877594341402014-11-03T05:51:00.004-08:002014-11-03T05:51:41.805-08:00What ios the required personal equipment?<br /><ul><li>At least one CE / ISO tested Rebreather sold by a manufacturing company. No homemade units.</li><li>DSMB and spool are mandatory for all divers.</li><li>Audible device</li><li>Bailout regulator or BOV</li><li>Dust and water caps for regulators, connections, etc.</li><li>Recommended minimum spares and consumables:</li><li>Oxygen Sensors (2)&nbsp;</li><li>Oxygen compatible grease</li><li>Unit specific O-ring kit</li><li>Unit specific tools</li><li>Mouthpiece</li><li>Recommended Equipment:</li><li>One “Nautilus Lifeline” device per buddy team.</li></ul><br /><div><br /></div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-59584028757539213622014-11-03T05:50:00.000-08:002014-11-03T05:50:00.449-08:00What are the rules and dive profileswe require for a CCR friendly your?Profiles are limited to a bottom time of 60 minutes and an average depth of 20 meters to avoid decompression.<br /><br />Standard diluent provided will be air and maximum recommended narcotic depth 30 meters.<br /><br />No “solo buddy diving”. The group, as a whole, needs to remain together at all times. If separated from the group, individual divers or buddy teams need to immediately deploy diver surface markers and ascend using the line as a reference.<br /><br />Divers have to remain within the Galapagos National Park Guide supervision.<br /><div><br /></div><div>For special technical diving with rebreathers contact us directly. We are happy to accommodate new things.</div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-20440766550483097452014-11-03T05:48:00.001-08:002014-11-03T05:53:19.003-08:00What makes a Rebreather friendly tour to the Galapagos? What's included?For rebreather friendly trips Galapagos Rebreathers provides an expedition technician to operate boosters and deliver high pressure oxygen. Granular or pre-packed CO2 absorbent, on board steel 2 or 3 liter rebreather cylinders with in line style valves and 6 liter aluminum bailout cylinders with DIN convertible valves and stage / sidemount rigging are available for all rebreather divers. CCR technician also acts as escorting guide for the divers.<br /><div><br /><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><b>Price includes the following items:</b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"></div><ul><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Accommodation on double occupancy cabins on board M/Y Humboldt Explorer</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Transportation to and from dive sites</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">All meals on board, coffee, tea and drinking water</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Fuel Surcharge</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Air diluent and bailout</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Sofnolime 8-12 (1 - 2.5mm) CO2 absorbent or equivalent in pre-packed cartridges.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Two Open Circuit Galapagos Marine Reserve dive masters.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">One Rebreather support technician for the entire duration of the trip.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">High pressure (150+ bar) medical grade Oxygen provided from Haskell Booster Pump.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Rental of one set of 2 or 3 liter steel cylinders for on board gas with in line style valves</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Rental of one 40cf / 5,7 liter bailout cylinder with DIN/Yoke 200 bar convertible valve</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Stage or sidemount rigging for off board bailout system.</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Additional costs not included in trip fee:</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Nitrox Bailout</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Tips and Gratuities</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Special drinks</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Round Trip air ticket to the Galapagos Islands</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Migratory control card tax</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Galapagos National Park entry fee</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Personal expenses</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Transfers and hotels in Ecuador mainland</span></li><li><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Additional extensions in Galapagos</span></li></ul><br /> </div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-13332168986580724542014-11-03T05:46:00.005-08:002014-11-03T05:46:33.753-08:00What is the current state of Rebreather Diving in the Galapagos?Rebreathers are a new field in the Galapagos Islands and present a series of added challenges for tour operators and diving. A bubble less environment and strong currents make group diving a must. In addition, conditions like ascending or descending currents, heavier and bulkier equipment and closer encounters with marine wildlife represent added challenges.<br /><br />The Tip Top dive and Training facility hosts Galapagos Rebreathers, a firm specialized in Rebreather diving in the Galapagos Islands.<br /><br />Galapagos Rebreathers provides support and equipment for rebreather divers, organizes land based and live-aboard trips and offers training in many levels in the Galapagos Islands.<br /><div><br /></div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-53699815065309446862014-11-03T05:45:00.004-08:002014-11-03T05:45:31.090-08:00How are Safety Stops / Decompression performed in the Galapagos?Safety stops are highly recommended in every dive. Stressing conditions, cold water and strenuous situations create higher potential of gas absorption. Safety stops are usually performed “in the blue” while drifting with the current.<br /><br />Decompression diving is mainly undeveloped in the Galapagos Islands. Decompression stops are performed “in the blue” with the aid of diver surface marking buoys to help panga drivers follow the divers along their hangs.<br /><br />&nbsp;The Tip Top dive and Training facility offers several special gas mixtures for decompression diving in the Galapagos Islands.<br /><br /><br /><div><br /></div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-71487098101053595042014-11-03T05:44:00.001-08:002014-11-03T05:44:27.015-08:00How are the currents in the Galapagos?Probably the most challenging condition for diving the Galapagos is current. The currents are often too strong to swim against reaching up to 4 knots at really strong conditions. The strength and even direction of current changes with depth and time; often very different conditions can be found at the same dive site with just a surface interval in between.<br /><br />Whirlpools, eddies and localized down (or up) currents can be found in different parts of the archipelago. The influence of up and down currents can often hard to control by novice divers. Needless to say, their effects can also be significant in the overall course of a dive.<br />The Galapagos Islands are a great place to take the Drift Diver course and experience real life conditions.<br /><br />For the rebreather diver a rig bulkier than the usual single cylinder kit, along with increased workload and drag created by currents can become substantial challenges. Ascending and descending currents often unperceivable with open circuit can also represent a source of additional task loading. In addition, strong surface currents and winds over a big open water area can make tracking bubble-less divers a more complex task. <br /><div><br /></div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-21550103402574205002014-11-03T05:38:00.002-08:002014-11-03T05:38:44.132-08:00What’s the water temperature for diving in the Galapagos?The Galapagos “garua” season (from June to December) has the coldest water temperatures and the “wet” season (from December to June) has the warmest. On the other hand, the water temperature in the archipelago varies with the different ocean currents that influence the Galapagos Islands.<br /><br />Surface temperature usually stays at 18 – 25 Celsius (64 – 77 Fahrenheit) all year round. In contrast, temperatures at depth can reach 13 Celsius (56 Fahrenheit) in thermoclines or in colder parts of the Galapagos archipelago. Thermoclines in the Galapagos usually occur between 12 – 18 meters (40 – 60 feet). Thermoclines also affect visibility.<br /><div><br /></div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-53641025327711843602014-11-03T05:37:00.003-08:002014-11-03T05:37:47.978-08:00Is there surge while diving the Galapagos?A shallow water feature, surges are common when current or swells are present. This is the reason why safety / deco stops are usually made on the blue, away from the rocks to avoid surge pushing divers towards the rocks. Surge will also make a diver recovery difficult for the tender boat.<br /><div><br /></div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-74257885552143147652014-11-03T05:35:00.003-08:002014-11-03T05:35:39.522-08:00What type of diving is there in the Galapagos? Is it mainly Drift Diving?Due to the currents throughout the archipelago dives usually follow the flow of the current. Most of the diving in the Galapagos is drift diving. Usually divers will descend in a rapid but controlled manner and hold on to an insensitive feature on the bottom. Once in the bottom, rocks and other natural features serve as good hiding places from the current. There is where a lot of the wildlife as hides so it’s a natural place for observing it. Once ready to move, just think ahead of where you are going, work with the current and find another anchor point or hideaway.<br /><div><br /></div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-16903788946855481032014-11-03T05:35:00.000-08:002014-11-03T05:35:07.628-08:00What are the dive insurance requirements in the Galapagos? Is there a recompression chamber in the Islands?Membership to Divers Alert Network (DAN) is highly recommended. A modern recompression chamber is available and functions as a DAN referral center. In addition, travel insurance is also highly recommended. Galapagos Tip Top Diving is a DAN World Business member and provides insurance. Contact us for details.<br /><br />Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-28307702695409263262014-11-03T05:31:00.000-08:002014-11-03T05:31:22.436-08:00What about getting money in the Galapagos? Cash on board?The legal currency is US Dollars and no other currencies are accepted in regular businesses. International card ATM machines are available in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno (San Cristobal) and Puerto Ayora (Santa Cruz).<br /><br />There is not ATM machine at the Baltra airport (serves Santra Cruz). Traveller cheques are accepted. International checks are usually not welcome.<br /><br />Many restaurants and boutiques accept credit card, a minimum fee and a 6 – 9% surcharge could be required.<br /><br />On boar a live-aboard boat you will generally need cash for surcharges, tips, etc.<br /><div><br /></div>Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5295517965045426435.post-83582388806786001462014-11-03T05:28:00.003-08:002014-11-03T05:28:47.864-08:00What should I bring to the Galapagos? General packing listAlthough we are in the tropical Equator and air temperature is usually warm, breezes at sea or during the night can cool you down. This is what we suggest you pack:<br /><br /><b>Clothes:</b><br />Shorts and T-shirts<br />Long sleeve lightweight shirts<br />Long pants<br />Light sweater or sweatshirt<br />Windbreaker<br />Hat (back and neck protection)<br />Bathing suit<br />Water sandals<br />Trekking / Hiking shoes<br /><br /><b>Personal Equipment:</b><br />Dry bag / Backpack Sunglasses<br />Binoculars<br />SPF Sunscreen<br />Insect Repellent (high DEET)<br />Movement sickness medication<br />Personal prescriptions<br /><br /><b>Imaging Equipment:</b><br />Camera with plenty of film / storage<br />Battery charger<br />Underwater housing if possible<br /><br />Jorge A. Mahauadhttps://plus.google.com/105013848636452471757noreply@blogger.com1